ION

Identifying the context Word linkin

Predicting in notes
EXAM LISTENING

Part 1: Talking about familiar topics

Giving extended answers
1

Topic talk
1Look at the pictures and answer the questions below.
a Which life events do the photographs show?
b What other major events in a person's life can you think of? Which ones
have you already experienced?
c Which milestones are particularly important in your culture?

2 Match the words and phrases in the box with the descriptions (a—h) below.
a place of your own • career • degree • driving test • early retirement • family
gap year • sabbatical • voluntary work

Example
I've worked for fifteen years in the same industry and although I've been successful, I
feel it's time to move on to something different. career
a I spend two afternoons a week at a local charity; I visit elderly people in
my neighbourhood and do odd jobs for them
b I'm very nervous as I've already failed twice; I really want to get a licence
so that I can be more independent
c We had our first child last year so at the moment I'm a stay-at-home mum
— it's hard work'
My work has given me a year off so that I can write my book; I'm also
planning to travel to Australia. I'm so excited'
I intend to stop working by the time I'm 55; I've been working since I was
15 so I think I'm due some relaxation.
I When I leave school I'm not going straight to university; I'd like to work for
a few months to save some money and then go travelling.
After three years' hard work I'm finally going to graduate; my whole
family is coming to the ceremony.
I'd like to be independent and move away from home; I'd miss my mum's
cooking though'

Technique
Using the correct collocation will make you sound more accurate in your speaking
and will gain you marks in the IELTS Speaking test.